How to React to a Hot Water Heater Failure

Which circuit breaker is linked to the water heater?

On your electrical panel, there are several circuit breakers present. Before doing anything with a water heater, it's necessary to cut off the electricity. To do this, you must find the correct circuit breaker.
A day/night contactor can save about 20% on energy costs. It is usually set to "auto." Turn it off before starting the troubleshooting of the water heater.

Tools needed to repair a water heater

To maintain an electric water heater, you will need:

• 1 screwdriver
• 1 electrical tester
• 1 measuring cup for flow

How to handle a water heater failure?

THIERRY:
The first type of failure is electrical.
So first, you need to cut the power to open the cover. Then turn the power back on.
Then check the voltage of the water heater.

POLO:
From what I see, the voltage is good. Are there any parts to test in the water heater?

THIERRY:
Absolutely! We will check the thermostat and the heating element. For that, you will need to cut off the electrical power to the water heater.

POLO:
Done!

THIERRY:
Now, locate the wires and disconnect those from the thermostat. Note the thermostat setting, then lower it to the minimum. Check it with your ohmmeter. You should measure a resistance. Otherwise, your thermostat needs to be replaced.

POLO:
That's not it either, so what could it be?

THIERRY:
It’s probably the heating element. Remove the thermostat to check the heating element with your ohmmeter now. If nothing shows up, then it’s the one causing the issue.

POLO:
Ah… ah!! It’s not working!

THIERRY:
Great job, Polo, you found the flaw!

POLO:
It was quite easy to do by myself!

THIERRY:
Yes, if you managed it, then everyone can do it.

THIERRY:
The maintenance of a water heater should be done frequently, checking for yourself the quality of the water and its hardness with specific strips. Every 15 days to 1 month, manipulate the safety group of your water heater to flush out residues in the hydraulic circuit.